When one travels to a new country, the language barrier is of the hardest factors to deal with. Since you cannot communicate what you want to say, the trip often seems bleak and not as enjoyable as you’d hope. In this case, there are several practices you could take up that allow for communication barriers to be removed, even without having to learn the new language While it might be ideal that you take the time to learn the new language, people don’t often have the time and effort that would go into it, for whatever reason. To have a better communicative experience in traveling to a foreign country without knowing the language, apply these tips:

Use the simplest vocabulary – You must stress on the simplest words that are easily understandable by natives of the foreign land if you wish to be understood. This means removing all unnecessary words from your sentences as well. It would also be prudent to remove slang words from the vocabulary and to use words that have a general meaning, such as “Airport” or “Bathroom”.

Slow down your speech – It is hardly noticeable by native English speakers or those of any other language, but the speed of your speech matters. Often in a rush the speed would increase by the, for example, English speaker which would undoubtedly cause miscommunication and problems in understanding, thus it would be better to speak in weaker tones and use smaller words such as “to”, “as” and so on, in a clear and slow manner as well.

Remove articulate words and grammar – In communicating with someone who does not understand your language, it would be better to rely on the most basic terms of the language rather than being highly articulate and using contractions. Getting into linguistic technicalities is likely to confuse both you and the individual you are communicating with, thus make sure there is more stress placed on the way you structure a sentence in the simplest way, rather than in a complex manner.

Use gestures – Non verbal communication comes in handy the most when you are trying to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak your language. Not only is it easier to use hand gestures or body language to make the other person understand what you’re trying to say, but it’s also a lot less complicated as body language is more or less universal. You would have an easier time breaking down your communication through hand gestures and body language than trying to make directions understandable.

Use your artistic talent – Finally, and often as a last resort, you could make use of your artistic talent in asking for directions or for certain meals and so on. While this is not the preferred way of many, it certainly gets the job done!

There are many ways in which traveling to a foreign land can be enjoyable, but it’s understandable why it might be uncomfortable for those who are completely ignorant of the customs and language patters of the foreign land. This is why it’s also important that you get hold of a language translating book, or ,phone app that will help you with the simplest terms, such as ordering food, asking for directions and so on. It could largely improve your traveling experience.”